EXPERIENCES WITH AND PREPAREDNESS FOR CLIMATE EMERGENCIES IN OREGON ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES
2024

Preparedness for Climate Emergencies in Oregon Assisted Living Communities

Sample size: 177 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Kohon Jacklyn, Himes Dani, Carder Paula, Tunalilar Ozcan

Primary Institution: Portland State University

Hypothesis

How prepared are assisted living communities in Oregon for climate-related emergencies?

Conclusion

The study found that while there are strengths in teamwork and relationships with emergency management, significant challenges remain in technology, evacuation plans, and staff safety.

Supporting Evidence

  • Over 900,000 individuals live in assisted living communities in the U.S.
  • Oregon has experience with various natural disasters, making it a relevant case study.
  • Thematic analysis revealed strengths in teamwork and relationships with emergency management.
  • Challenges included technology interruptions and insufficient evacuation plans.

Takeaway

This study looked at how well assisted living homes in Oregon are ready for climate emergencies, finding both good teamwork and some big problems.

Methodology

Interviews with 14 administrators, surveys of 140 direct care workers, and focus groups with 23 direct care workers.

Limitations

The study may not capture all experiences across different states or types of assisted living communities.

Participant Demographics

Participants included administrators, management operators, and direct care workers from assisted living communities in Oregon.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.0757

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